Lesson: Pick 3 Probability
Teacher: Jamie Droegemeier
Level: Algebra II
Overview:
 This lesson revisits previously learned probability concepts and reinforces the methods
for calculating theoretical probabilities.
Objectives and Goals:
 Kansas Standards
o Develop a probability distribution for a random variable defined for a sample
space in which theoretical probabilities can be calculated; find the expected
value.
 The student will be able to write functions utilizing variables and random numbers.
Anticipatory Set (5 min):
o Watch the The Lowdown video as a class to begin discussion of odds of winning
the lottery.
o Discuss theoretical probability and how it compares to experimental probability.
Direct Instruction and Guided Practice (15 min):
 Review calculation of theoretical probability.
 Present sample scenarios for calculating theoretical probability of independent events.
 Work one example together with the class.
Independent Practice (15 min):
 Demonstrate how the Alice program “Pick 3 Probability” will look and run.
 Have each student open and play the program “Pick 3 Probability” and complete the
quiz questions.
 Have each student play the lottery portion of the world at least five times and collect
data on how many numbers matched.
Assessment
 Walk around the classroom as students play the program. Observe how students are
doing on the quiz questions.
Closure (10 min):
 Discuss the use of functions, variables, and random numbers in the Alice program “Pick
3 Probability”.
 Show the Alice code that displays the numbers and chooses the lotto balls.
Independent Practice (Homework):
 Have students complete the Alice tutorial “Changing Color/Shorter of Two”.
Required Materials and Equipment:
 Computer(s) with Alice software
 Students will need paper, pencil, and calculator